Connect with us
Advertisement
Advertisement

News

Nursing staff warn Welsh Government: pay system ‘broken’

Published

on

MORE than nine in ten nurses in Wales have rejected the Welsh Government’s 3.6% pay offer in what has become the highest‑ever turnout in a Royal College of Nursing (RCN) consultation in Wales.

The record level of participation is seen as a clear sign of growing anger over pay, working conditions, and the ongoing pressures facing the NHS. For the first time, so many members have taken part in a consultative ballot – and the message is blunt: nursing staff feel undervalued far beyond the level of an annual pay award.

Call for urgent reform

The RCN says the current NHS “Agenda for Change” pay system – introduced more than 20 years ago – is outdated, offering low starting salaries, blocking career progression, and failing to reward advanced skills, training, and experience.

Union leaders accuse the Welsh Government of “kicking reform down the road” and deferring to England, despite having the power to act. They say proper pay reform is vital to keep experienced nurses in the profession and ensure patient safety.

‘Pay is a patient safety issue’

Helen Whyley, Executive Director of RCN Wales, said: “With the highest turnout ever, our members have made it clear: 3.6% is not enough for nursing staff – they deserve to be heard.

“The commitments made in 2023 on pay restoration and career progression have become empty rhetoric, making no difference to our members’ daily reality. Coupled with the cost‑of‑living crisis and the moral injury of caring for patients in inappropriate environments, it is clear that nursing pay reform is a patient safety issue – and it is within the Welsh Government’s power to fix.

“Pay is not just a number – it reflects the terms, conditions and respect that shape how valued, supported and motivated staff feel in their roles. In less than a year, our members will go to the polls. They feel desperately undervalued by this government, and that will not change unless major reforms are delivered in the months ahead – not just promised in an election campaign.”

What happens next

The RCN will now consult its members on the next steps, which could include a formal ballot for industrial action if the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care does not enter “meaningful talks.”

Welsh Government response

A Welsh Government spokesperson told The Herald it had already committed to the biggest pay rise in the UK for nurses last year, alongside improvements to terms and conditions, and would “continue to work with unions to improve recruitment and retention in the NHS”.

The spokesperson said: “We value the incredible work nurses do every day for patients in Wales. While difficult financial choices have to be made, we remain committed to supporting NHS staff and delivering safe, high‑quality care across Wales.”

 

Charity

Milford Haven Beer Fest set for Bank Holiday return

Published

on

Festival promises live music, Welsh ales and community spirit at the waterfront

MILFORD HAVEN Beer Fest is set to return later this month, with organisers promising another packed day of live music, craft drinks and festival atmosphere.

The popular annual event will take place at Milford Waterfront on Saturday, May 23, inside the Ascona Group Marquee, with doors opening at 12:00pm.

Organisers say no advance tickets will be available, with entry operating on a first come, first served basis. Another sell-out is expected and early arrival is strongly advised.

A wide range of Welsh breweries and drinks producers will be represented, including Tenby Harbwr Brewery, Bluestone Brewing Company, Gethin’s Cider, Mantle Brewery, Gower Brewery and Core of the Poodle.

Tiny Rebel Brewery will also be serving lagers, IPAs and its new stout, Coal Drop, while Barti Rum will showcase its latest canned drinks. Prosecco and Pimm’s will also be available.

Entertainment throughout the day will be hosted by Pure West Radio, with headliners 4th Street returning to the waterfront.

The line-up also includes a DJ set from former Welsh rugby international and British and Irish Lion Josh Navidi, alongside performances from Steve Bartram, Big Chicken, Jake Taylor, Function 22 and Natalie O’Brien.

Festivalgoers will also be able to enjoy a street food zone featuring Grub Tacos, Junkyard Dogs and Reeves BBQ.

Community support

Nathan Rees, chairman of Milford Haven Round Table said: “The Beer Festival is a huge highlight for us – not just for the atmosphere, but for the impact it has.

“Every penny raised goes back into the community, funding events like our Carnival and Fireworks and supporting local causes.

“We’re also incredibly grateful to The Ascona Group for their continued sponsorship and to the Port of Milford Haven for their ongoing support as our Major Events Partner, as well as all the Beer Festival sponsors for 2026.”

Ticket information

Entry costs £25 and includes four drink tokens, a festival cup and live entertainment throughout the day.

Additional drink tokens will cost £2.50 each, with cash and card accepted.

The event is strictly over-18s only.

Organisers say there will be a 100 per cent bag search policy, with visitors strongly advised not to bring bags. Free water will be available, and dogs will not be allowed.

 

Continue Reading

Charity

Pembroke Dock charity shop expands to support hospice care

Published

on

SHOP NOW OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK AFTER EXPANSION INTO ADJOINING UNIT

A CHARITY shop in Pembroke Dock has expanded into a neighbouring unit to help raise more money for local hospice care.

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home has completed a knock-through at its shop in Bierspool, London Road, creating a larger retail space and allowing the charity to offer a wider range of items, including furniture.

The expanded shop was officially opened on Friday (May 1) by the outgoing Mayor of Pembroke Dock, Cllr Michelle Wiggins.

The shop team, led by Kelly Elliot and supported by volunteers, worked for several weeks to prepare the new-look store for customers.

Head of Retail Julia Brady welcomed guests at the opening, while the charity also thanked staff, volunteers and supporters who helped decorate and prepare the premises.

Special thanks were given to Gill at Pembroke Dock Tesco for donating treats for customers and staff on the day.

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home operates nine retail shops and an eBay department. Income from donations and sales helps fund the charity’s clinical teams, who provide free specialist palliative care to patients and families across Pembrokeshire.

The charity says it costs £3,600 every day to deliver its free clinical services. Around 30% of that cost is funded through Hywel Dda Health Board, with the remainder raised through retail income, fundraising and community support.

The Pembroke Dock shop is now open seven days a week, giving people more opportunities to shop, donate and support local hospice care.

Paul Sartori Hospice at Home was established in memory of Father Paul Sartori, a much-loved local priest who recognised the need for hospice care before his death from cancer at the age of 39.

The charity provides care for people with any life-limiting condition, not only cancer, and supports patients of all faiths and none. It operates an open referral system, with referrals accepted from patients, families, friends and healthcare professionals.

Paul Sartori Foundation Ltd operates under the name Paul Sartori Hospice at Home. The charity was registered in 1982 and will celebrate its 45th anniversary during 2027/2028.

 

Continue Reading

News

Ysgol Bro Teifi celebrates national championship rugby success

Published

on

UNDER-18 SIDE LIFTS WRU PLATE AFTER HARD-FOUGHT FINAL AT RODNEY PARADE

YSGOL BRO TEIFI’S under-18 rugby team are celebrating national success after winning the WRU Schools and Colleges Plate Final at Rodney Parade.

The Ceredigion side travelled to Newport to face Ysgol Maes y Gwendraeth in a fast, physical and closely contested final.

Bro Teifi made a strong start, with tries from Elis Evans, Llew Thomas and Jack Brown giving them an early advantage. Dafydd Nichols-Evans added the extras from the kicking tee as the team went into half-time 19-14 ahead.

The second half proved even tighter, with Ysgol Maes y Gwendraeth applying sustained pressure and forcing Bro Teifi to defend with discipline and determination.

A late try gave Bro Teifi breathing space before Nichols-Evans held his nerve in the closing stages, landing a crucial penalty to seal a 27-19 victory.

The school said the win reflected the hard work, commitment and talent of the players, as well as the support of staff, parents and fans throughout the season.

Headteacher Gareth Evans said: “This game is the culmination of a tough season for the boys as they beat much bigger schools on the way to the final.

“It also builds on the school’s reputation in sport, with numerous successes this year across a range of sports and age groups.

“I would like to thank all the school staff for their tireless work in ensuring these experiences for our pupils, and the parents for their support.”

Photo caption: Plate winners: Ysgol Bro Teifi’s under-18 rugby team celebrate their national success at Rodney Parade.

 

Continue Reading

Community5 hours ago

Rescue bid planned for lambs stranded below Stack Rocks cliffs

Tree surgeon preparing 150ft descent after live firing delayed rescue attempt A MAJOR rescue operation is being planned this afternoon...

News8 hours ago

Bishop’s report reveals major renewal challenge at St Davids Cathedral

Formal Visitation highlights financial, structural, leadership and spiritual pressures at one of Wales’ most important religious sites ST DAVIDS CATHEDRAL...

Crime1 day ago

Farming company fined £19,000 for damaging protected wildlife site

A CARDIGAN farming company has been ordered to pay almost £20,000 after recklessly damaging a Site of Special Scientific Interest....

News1 day ago

Baby in critical condition after Fishguard emergency

Teenagers arrested as police investigate circumstances A BABY remains in hospital in a critical but stable condition after being taken...

Community2 days ago

Tenby phone signal crisis goes national as businesses warn of summer disruption

TRADERS SAY CARD PAYMENTS, TAXIS AND VISITOR SAFETY ARE BEING HIT BY ‘DEAD ZONE’ COVERAGE TENBY’S long-running mobile phone signal...

News2 days ago

Final poll puts Plaid and Reform level ahead of Senedd vote

Labour faces historic setback as new modelling points to a hung Senedd PLAID CYMRU and Reform UK are projected to...

News3 days ago

West Wales coracle fishermen raise alarm over suspected sewage pollution

A CENTURIES-old fishing tradition on the River Towy could be under threat after coracle fishermen reported suspected sewage pollution entering...

Community4 days ago

Scooter rally brings colour and nostalgia to Tenby

TENBY is buzzing with the sights and sounds of classic scooters this Bank Holiday weekend as the Welsh National Scooter...

Entertainment4 days ago

Haverfoodfest returns to Haverfordwest town centre today

HAVERFORDWEST town centre is expected to be busy today as Haverfoodfest 2026 returns for a full day of food, drink,...

Crime5 days ago

70-year-old denies assault and restraining order breach

A PENSIONER from Pembroke Dock has denied breaching a restraining order and assaulting another man. Henry Howlett, 70, of Market...

Popular This Week